Innuendo Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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innuendo
in-nu-en-do
Definitions
in conversation
An indirect or subtle comment or hint, typically with a negative connotation. Innuendos are often used to imply something derogatory or offensive without explicitly saying it.
Synonyms
hint, implication, insinuation, insinuation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| innuendo |
Used when wanting to allude to something sexually suggestive or inappropriate without stating it directly. Usually has a negative or cheeky connotation.
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| insinuation |
Appropriate when subtly implying something that is usually negative or hurtful. Often used to suggest doubt or mistrust.
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| implication |
Used when suggesting something indirectly, often referring to broader consequences or meanings. It can have a neutral or slightly negative connotation depending on the context.
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| hint |
Appropriate when providing a subtle suggestion or clue. It is often used in everyday conversations and has a neutral or positive connotation.
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Examples of usage
- She made a sly innuendo about his intelligence during the meeting.
- The comedian's innuendos about relationships were hilarious yet inappropriate.
in media
An allusive or oblique remark or hint, especially one that carries a sexual connotation. Innuendos in media can range from subtle implications to more explicit insinuations.
Synonyms
double entendre, sexual insinuation, suggestive remark.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| innuendo |
Use when you want to imply something subtly, often indirectly hinting at a deeper meaning or criticism. It can be either sexual or non-sexual.
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| suggestive remark |
Used when making a statement that hints at something, often sexually, without explicitly saying it. This can be used humorously or to elicit a reaction.
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| double entendre |
Best used when a statement can be interpreted in two different ways, often one being innocuous and the other having a sexual or risqué meaning.
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| sexual insinuation |
Use when you want to clearly indicate that the implied meaning is sexual. It often carries a negative or inappropriate connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The movie was filled with innuendos that went over the children's heads.
- The song lyrics contained clever innuendos that only adults would understand.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Quick facts about “innuendo”
Innuendo is a 4-syllable noun (in-nu-en-do). It is pronounced /ˌɪnjuˈɛndoʊ/ in American English and /ɪnnjuːˈɛndəʊ/ in British English. On finesentence.com it has 2 meanings, 7 synonyms, and translations into 21 languages. It ranks #24,035 among the most common English words.
Origin of 'innuendo'
The word 'innuendo' originated in the late 17th century from the Latin word 'innuendere', which means 'to signify' or 'to give a nod'. Over time, it evolved to refer to indirect or insinuating remarks, especially in a negative or suggestive manner. The use of innuendos has been prevalent in literature, media, and everyday conversations as a way to convey messages subtly or provocatively.
See also: innuendos.